New Jersey race fans were treated to great weather, and perhaps even better racing action, on the first of the two days following Thanksgiving that make up the Turkey Derby at Wall Stadium. Five feature events, and time trials for the Wall/SK Modifieds were run under sunny skies, and mild temperatures.
The Sportsman feature event saw veteran driver Kevin Eyres hold off the young and talented Alspach brothers, Zach and Trevor, who finished second and third respectively. Robert Sutphin and Andrew Krause rounded out the top five.
Canada's Stewart Friesen captured the dirt car event over John McClelland, Joey Payne, Steve Folk, and Dominick Buffalino.
James Hayes took the Late Model feature, while the Factory Stocks event was captured by Wall Stadium regular Shannon Mongeau. Mike Alcaro was the winner of the Legends feature.
The time trials for the Wall/SK Modifieds saw two expected names at the top, and one surprise a close third. Matt Hirschman, fresh off his North-South Shootout win, posted the fastest time, followed closely by Jimmy Blewett. Wall Stadium young gun, Roger Coss, was impressive in posting the third quickest time. Another Wall regular Chris Hamilton was fourth fastest followed by NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour competitor Doug Coby, who had the fifth best lap.
Saturday should see even more of the great weather, and even better racing, as the "Tour Modifieds" will compete in a 150-lap event.
Wall is where you will want to be, this Saturday, if you are a true NJ race fan.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Thanksgiving Racing Reads from E. Boyce
If you are one of those people lucky enough to not have to cook on this Thanksgiving Day, football doesn't really interest you, and you're not heading out to the garage to ready your car for the Turkey Derby at Wall Stadium as soon as you're done eating, I have provided links to some of my most recent articles and posts, enjoy.
Truex Brothers Snubbed
Turkey Derby Preview
Ryan Truex Could Benefit from Kyle Busch Actions
Divorce Next for Kevin Harvick?
Truex Brothers Snubbed
Turkey Derby Preview
Ryan Truex Could Benefit from Kyle Busch Actions
Divorce Next for Kevin Harvick?
Mark Martin Will Not Drive #00 in 2012
Yes Mark Martin will be driving in 25 NASCAR Sprint Cup races for Michael Waltrip Racing in 2012, and yes he will be sponsored by Aaron's. He will not, however, be driving the #00.
Michael Waltrip, and Aaron's CEO Ken Butler, announced yesterday that the Toyota Mark Martin will pilot will switch to the #55 for the next two years. The number holds significance for both Waltrip and Aaron's.
Waltrip raced the #55 in 2006 for Bill Davis Racing, and then used the number for the first three years of MWR's existence.
Aaron's, which has grown from 400 stores to more than 1900 currently since teaming up with Waltrip in 2000, actually got it's start in 1955.
The Aaron's sponsorship will only be on the #55 for the 25 race Martin will compete in and the 7 that Waltrip will see action in. The remaining races on the 2012 Sprint Cup schedule will be filled with an as- yet named driver, and sponsors.
Michael Waltrip, and Aaron's CEO Ken Butler, announced yesterday that the Toyota Mark Martin will pilot will switch to the #55 for the next two years. The number holds significance for both Waltrip and Aaron's.
Waltrip raced the #55 in 2006 for Bill Davis Racing, and then used the number for the first three years of MWR's existence.
Aaron's, which has grown from 400 stores to more than 1900 currently since teaming up with Waltrip in 2000, actually got it's start in 1955.
The Aaron's sponsorship will only be on the #55 for the 25 race Martin will compete in and the 7 that Waltrip will see action in. The remaining races on the 2012 Sprint Cup schedule will be filled with an as- yet named driver, and sponsors.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s 2011 Wasn't as Bad as it Seemed
While Dale Earnhardt Jr. fans are certainly frustrated by their favorite driver's inability to win a race in NASCAR Sprint Cup competition in 2011, the year really wasn't as bad as it seems.
Somehow, despite rarely running up front, and only once really being in a position to win, he managed to finish 7th in the points, ahead of drivers like Jeff Gordon, Denny Hamlin, and the Busch brothers, Kurt and Kyle. He was only a few points behind Jimmie Johnson, for 6th, in fact.
That is a year many drivers would sign up for at any time. Think about those who didn't even make The Chase. Drivers like Clint Bowyer, Greg Biffle, Juan Pablo Montoya. and more.
The bad news for Dale Jr. fans is I just don't think he communicates well enough to ever win a race other than one at a restictor plate track.
The good news is the season starts at Daytona, a restrictor plate track.
Somehow, despite rarely running up front, and only once really being in a position to win, he managed to finish 7th in the points, ahead of drivers like Jeff Gordon, Denny Hamlin, and the Busch brothers, Kurt and Kyle. He was only a few points behind Jimmie Johnson, for 6th, in fact.
That is a year many drivers would sign up for at any time. Think about those who didn't even make The Chase. Drivers like Clint Bowyer, Greg Biffle, Juan Pablo Montoya. and more.
The bad news for Dale Jr. fans is I just don't think he communicates well enough to ever win a race other than one at a restictor plate track.
The good news is the season starts at Daytona, a restrictor plate track.
Turkey Derby Entry List Adds More Impressive Names
As the entry list for Wall Stadium's 2011 Turkey Derby continues to grow the names seem to get more and more impressive, giving this year's event the possibility of being the most memorable Thanksgiving weekend in the track's recent history.
The most recent drivers to add their names to the entry list for the Tour event for Modifieds include Matt Hirschman, fresh off his recent win of the North-South Shootout, Woody Pitkat, who is coming off possibly his best year on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, and Jimmy Zacharias from New York.
They will be joined by three names very familiar to Wall Stadium regulars. Bill Weichert, who has been a regular at the Jersey Shore speedway for a number of years will bring his experience to a division that does not compete all year at the track. Tommy Farrell III, who has spent the 2011 season trying to learn the tricks of dirt racing at New Egypt Speedway, and Danny Bohn, son of former Wall Stadium great Eddie Bohn, who has been very successful in North Carolina, where he currently lives, and races.
However, perhaps the biggest name to commit to the Turkey Derby is Stewart Friesen, of Canada, who won the SEF 200 in October, at Syracuse, for the second consecutive year.
The Turkey Derby looks to be returning to it's glory years, where just making the field was an accomplishment in itself. Hopefully the track will be blessed with good weather, and maybe even some above average temperatures to allow the racing surface to provide us with some great side-by-side racing.
The most recent drivers to add their names to the entry list for the Tour event for Modifieds include Matt Hirschman, fresh off his recent win of the North-South Shootout, Woody Pitkat, who is coming off possibly his best year on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, and Jimmy Zacharias from New York.
They will be joined by three names very familiar to Wall Stadium regulars. Bill Weichert, who has been a regular at the Jersey Shore speedway for a number of years will bring his experience to a division that does not compete all year at the track. Tommy Farrell III, who has spent the 2011 season trying to learn the tricks of dirt racing at New Egypt Speedway, and Danny Bohn, son of former Wall Stadium great Eddie Bohn, who has been very successful in North Carolina, where he currently lives, and races.
However, perhaps the biggest name to commit to the Turkey Derby is Stewart Friesen, of Canada, who won the SEF 200 in October, at Syracuse, for the second consecutive year.
The Turkey Derby looks to be returning to it's glory years, where just making the field was an accomplishment in itself. Hopefully the track will be blessed with good weather, and maybe even some above average temperatures to allow the racing surface to provide us with some great side-by-side racing.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Former Sprint Cup Driver Adds Name to Atlantic City Indoor Race Entry List
The entry list for the 2012 Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall Indoor Races continues to grow. The event's popularity, among racers, and fans throughout the Northeast, also continues to grow. While it has drawn a literal who's who among local racers, this week it received a commitment from a nationally know driver from NASCAR.
Johnny Benson, who has won in all three of NASCAR's major series, Camping World Truck, Nationwide, and Sprint Cup, has announced he will be coming to Atlantic City in February. Benson will be driving a car prepared by Lou Cicconi Jr., a legend in small car racing.
The former Rockingham race winner has been competing, recently, in the ISMA Super Modifieds, taking home a win at Seekonk on October 2nd. Ironically it was Cicconi who chased him most of the race.
Benson is hopeful of returning to the Camping World Truck Series, full-time, in 2012, so the Atlantic City race could become his tune-up for Daytona.
As I stated before this event is becoming more, and more, popular with both fans and competitors every year, so make sure you get your tickets early. They would certainly make a great Christmas present.
Tickets are available at http://www.ticketmaster.com/.
Johnny Benson, who has won in all three of NASCAR's major series, Camping World Truck, Nationwide, and Sprint Cup, has announced he will be coming to Atlantic City in February. Benson will be driving a car prepared by Lou Cicconi Jr., a legend in small car racing.
The former Rockingham race winner has been competing, recently, in the ISMA Super Modifieds, taking home a win at Seekonk on October 2nd. Ironically it was Cicconi who chased him most of the race.
Benson is hopeful of returning to the Camping World Truck Series, full-time, in 2012, so the Atlantic City race could become his tune-up for Daytona.
As I stated before this event is becoming more, and more, popular with both fans and competitors every year, so make sure you get your tickets early. They would certainly make a great Christmas present.
Tickets are available at http://www.ticketmaster.com/.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Entry List Continues to Grow for Turkey Derby with Addition of Modified Stars
The entry list not only continues to grow for Wall Stadium's Turkey Derby, but the names of the competitors reads like an all-star line-up for Northeast Modified drivers. The anticipation for this event continues to grow with the addition of each new team.
While Jamie Tomaino and Doug Coby were among the first NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour drivers to commit to running the Turkey Derby, they are certainly not the last.
Former Turkey Derby winner, and Tour competitor, Jimmy Blewett has confirmed his appearance. Although he has spent much of 2011 racing on the dirt at New Egypt Speedway, he did make an appearance at Wall earlier this year. All he did that night was hold off eventual track champion Anthony Sesely to win the JBIII Memorial Race honoring his brother.
Another Modified driver, who despite being from Connecticut, is very popular with Wall Stadium fans, has also added his name to the entry list. Les Hinckley, who ironically became a fan favorite following a battle with Jimmy Blewett several years ago, will return to try again to capture one of the Northeast's most historic races.
Ken Barry, another Connecticut driver, and owner of Spafco chassis, has also confirmed his entry. Barry is no stranger to Wall, as he has run the Jamie Wolf Motorsports pink, number 11 in the past at the high-banked oval.
This past weekend's practice also saw several top Modified drivers, who are expected to add their names to the list shortly. Former Wall regulars, and fan favorites Steven Reed and Ken Woolley Jr,, were joined on the track by former Turkey Derby champion, and NASCAR Modified competitor Rowan Pennink.
The 2011 Turkey Derby is quickly shaping up into a must-see event in a few short weeks. The large number of features, along with the ever-growing list of top-notch competitors should make for a great Thanksgiving weekend of racing at the Jersey Shore.
While Jamie Tomaino and Doug Coby were among the first NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour drivers to commit to running the Turkey Derby, they are certainly not the last.
Former Turkey Derby winner, and Tour competitor, Jimmy Blewett has confirmed his appearance. Although he has spent much of 2011 racing on the dirt at New Egypt Speedway, he did make an appearance at Wall earlier this year. All he did that night was hold off eventual track champion Anthony Sesely to win the JBIII Memorial Race honoring his brother.
Another Modified driver, who despite being from Connecticut, is very popular with Wall Stadium fans, has also added his name to the entry list. Les Hinckley, who ironically became a fan favorite following a battle with Jimmy Blewett several years ago, will return to try again to capture one of the Northeast's most historic races.
Ken Barry, another Connecticut driver, and owner of Spafco chassis, has also confirmed his entry. Barry is no stranger to Wall, as he has run the Jamie Wolf Motorsports pink, number 11 in the past at the high-banked oval.
This past weekend's practice also saw several top Modified drivers, who are expected to add their names to the list shortly. Former Wall regulars, and fan favorites Steven Reed and Ken Woolley Jr,, were joined on the track by former Turkey Derby champion, and NASCAR Modified competitor Rowan Pennink.
The 2011 Turkey Derby is quickly shaping up into a must-see event in a few short weeks. The large number of features, along with the ever-growing list of top-notch competitors should make for a great Thanksgiving weekend of racing at the Jersey Shore.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Ryan Truex Sunoco Rookie of the Race Again, Award His?
Ryan Truex, based on his 8th place finish on Saturday at Phoenix, was name the Sunoco Rookie of the Race. It is an honor he has accomplished in all six of his starts for Joe Gibbs Racing.
His start at Phoenix gave Ryan the 16 starts needed to qualify for the season-ending award of Sunoco Rookie of the Year. His finish at Phoenix, should of also given him the lead in the rookie points, however, the decision is not based solely on points earned during the races.
Check out my article from NJ.com, Ryan Truex Phoenix Race Could Result in "Rookie of the Year Award", for all the details on what other factors are considered.
While the award would certainly be an honor for Ryan, he certainly wishes it came with a full-time ride in 2012. He has certainly proved he deserves one.
His start at Phoenix gave Ryan the 16 starts needed to qualify for the season-ending award of Sunoco Rookie of the Year. His finish at Phoenix, should of also given him the lead in the rookie points, however, the decision is not based solely on points earned during the races.
Check out my article from NJ.com, Ryan Truex Phoenix Race Could Result in "Rookie of the Year Award", for all the details on what other factors are considered.
While the award would certainly be an honor for Ryan, he certainly wishes it came with a full-time ride in 2012. He has certainly proved he deserves one.
Wall Stadium Rumors
It's that time of the year again here in New Jersey. Most of the race season has been wrapped up, and only two things are on the mind of Wall Stadium fans, the upcoming Turkey Derby, and the immediate future of their beloved track.
While all signs are pointing to this year's Turkey Derby being one of the best in recent memory, the rumors regarding the track, and it's management, the Krause family, have been the wildest ones heard yet.
An article in this week's Area Auto Racing News claimed there were two possible scenarios on the table. The first was that Cliff Krause was interested in becoming the promoter of Bridgeport Speedway. The second was that he planned to cover Wall Stadium's asphalt surface with dirt, and race on Friday nights.
I personally spent some time with Cliff Krause during the running of the track's first annual Halloween event. What I found out about Cliff is he is a very busy businessman during the week with his self-owned Supreme Manufacturing, located in East Brunswick, NJ. He really only makes it out to the track on Saturdays, leaving the daily management of the facility to his wife Diane. She has been known to put in 60 hours plus a week at the track, and doesn't take a paycheck.
The Krause family have nothing but good intentions for Wall Stadium. They have put alot of effort into the 2011 season, and quite frankly, are on the verge of being overwhelmed by the demands of running a track on some occasions. For anyone to think they might consider running Bridgeport Speedway, after all they have invested at Wall is a little absurd for several reasons.
First of all, the family lives about 30 minutes from Wall. Taking over Bridgeport, would mean an approximate 2 hour commute, each way, for something that doesn't generate any income for them. Unless they plan on uprooting their entire family, or selling their business, to devote all their time to Bridgeport, I don't see this happening, and the likelihood of either is highly doubtful.
Secondly, while I myself have considered the idea of Wall Stadium going to a Friday night schedule, the Krause family seem unwillingly to change it's traditional Saturday night schedule. With all three tracks in Jersey currently running on the same night, Saturday, it would only seem logical that moving one to another day could generate more fans.
Afterall, I fondly recall when my weekend would consist of Friday nights at East Windsor Speedway, and Saturday night at either Wall, or Flemington. However, those were in much better economic times. I don't know of many people, let alone families, who could afford to attend the races twice in the same weekend, unless they were for very special races.
The rumor of Cliff Krause wanting to cover the asphalt surface with dirt is truly amazing to me. While it probably has it's roots in the fact that dirt cars were added to the Turkey Derby event in 2010, and will be a part of it again this year, making Wall a dirt track wouldn't be as simple as just adding some dirt.
There would be all kinds of equipment to buy, or rent, to groom the surface. Graders, and water trucks don't come cheap. Not to mention the dirt itself, and the expense of bringing it onsite. Then there is the added cost of maintaining it every week. The asphalt is the last thing they need to worry about every week at Wall, the same couldn't be said of dirt.
Another factor would be the approval of the town. What many people don't know is the Krause family has presented many ideas to the township regarding additional uses of the facility. Events like carnivals, or family concerts, and all have been met with opposition. You honestly think the town would allow a giant cloud of dust from the track every Friday night?
Remember, Cliff Krause is a very successful businessman. He is currently on a year-to-year basis regarding the lease of the facility. In fact, he is not completely sure, as the Turkey Derby approaches, of the track's status for 2012. While he is rather certain they will get an agreement in place for next year, nothing is final until the lease is actually signed. A conversion to a dirt track would take a committment from the track's owners to a multi-year lease, something they seem very reluctant to do.
While it wouldn't be November for Wall Stadium fans, and competitors, without some uncertainty about the Jersey Shore oval, this year's rumors are pretty wild.
Let's just look forward to a great Turkey Derby, and hope we get some certainity on the track's future soon.
While all signs are pointing to this year's Turkey Derby being one of the best in recent memory, the rumors regarding the track, and it's management, the Krause family, have been the wildest ones heard yet.
An article in this week's Area Auto Racing News claimed there were two possible scenarios on the table. The first was that Cliff Krause was interested in becoming the promoter of Bridgeport Speedway. The second was that he planned to cover Wall Stadium's asphalt surface with dirt, and race on Friday nights.
I personally spent some time with Cliff Krause during the running of the track's first annual Halloween event. What I found out about Cliff is he is a very busy businessman during the week with his self-owned Supreme Manufacturing, located in East Brunswick, NJ. He really only makes it out to the track on Saturdays, leaving the daily management of the facility to his wife Diane. She has been known to put in 60 hours plus a week at the track, and doesn't take a paycheck.
The Krause family have nothing but good intentions for Wall Stadium. They have put alot of effort into the 2011 season, and quite frankly, are on the verge of being overwhelmed by the demands of running a track on some occasions. For anyone to think they might consider running Bridgeport Speedway, after all they have invested at Wall is a little absurd for several reasons.
First of all, the family lives about 30 minutes from Wall. Taking over Bridgeport, would mean an approximate 2 hour commute, each way, for something that doesn't generate any income for them. Unless they plan on uprooting their entire family, or selling their business, to devote all their time to Bridgeport, I don't see this happening, and the likelihood of either is highly doubtful.
Secondly, while I myself have considered the idea of Wall Stadium going to a Friday night schedule, the Krause family seem unwillingly to change it's traditional Saturday night schedule. With all three tracks in Jersey currently running on the same night, Saturday, it would only seem logical that moving one to another day could generate more fans.
Afterall, I fondly recall when my weekend would consist of Friday nights at East Windsor Speedway, and Saturday night at either Wall, or Flemington. However, those were in much better economic times. I don't know of many people, let alone families, who could afford to attend the races twice in the same weekend, unless they were for very special races.
The rumor of Cliff Krause wanting to cover the asphalt surface with dirt is truly amazing to me. While it probably has it's roots in the fact that dirt cars were added to the Turkey Derby event in 2010, and will be a part of it again this year, making Wall a dirt track wouldn't be as simple as just adding some dirt.
There would be all kinds of equipment to buy, or rent, to groom the surface. Graders, and water trucks don't come cheap. Not to mention the dirt itself, and the expense of bringing it onsite. Then there is the added cost of maintaining it every week. The asphalt is the last thing they need to worry about every week at Wall, the same couldn't be said of dirt.
Another factor would be the approval of the town. What many people don't know is the Krause family has presented many ideas to the township regarding additional uses of the facility. Events like carnivals, or family concerts, and all have been met with opposition. You honestly think the town would allow a giant cloud of dust from the track every Friday night?
Remember, Cliff Krause is a very successful businessman. He is currently on a year-to-year basis regarding the lease of the facility. In fact, he is not completely sure, as the Turkey Derby approaches, of the track's status for 2012. While he is rather certain they will get an agreement in place for next year, nothing is final until the lease is actually signed. A conversion to a dirt track would take a committment from the track's owners to a multi-year lease, something they seem very reluctant to do.
While it wouldn't be November for Wall Stadium fans, and competitors, without some uncertainty about the Jersey Shore oval, this year's rumors are pretty wild.
Let's just look forward to a great Turkey Derby, and hope we get some certainity on the track's future soon.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Two NASCAR Whelen Modified Drivers Top Early Entrants for Turkey Derby
The entry forms have begun to arrive for Wall Stadium's upcoming Turkey Derby to be held on Thanksgiving weekend. Among the entrants are two NASCAR Whelen Modified drivers, one with a past Turkey Derby win, a track champion from nearby New Egypt Speedway, and another from a family who publishes the leading local interest newspaper in racing.
Jamie Tomaino, a past NASCAR champion, and holder of 28 career wins at Wall, was of course expected to compete. However, in somewhat of a surprise, Doug Coby, a regular on The Tour, will also make the long trip from his home in Massachursetts to compete.
Joining them is a man who not only is a 2011 New Egypt Speedway champion, but also one of the better fabricators in the sport. Rob Ormsbee will actually compete in two divisions, the Tour Mods, and the Late Model Stock divisions.
Davey Sammons, a very talented young racer, who is best perhaps known for his family's racing publication, the Area Auto Racing News, will also be competing.
While I have only mentioned four drivers from the early entrant list, there are many more scheduled to attend the Turkey Derby, these four certainly have to be considered driver's to beat, along with the Wall Staium regulars. Very rarely does an outsider outperform the Wall regulars, however, an early practice session, held this Satuday from 10am to 3pm, could be just enough to get their cars dialed in for the Turkey Derby on Thanksgiving weekend.
Jamie Tomaino, a past NASCAR champion, and holder of 28 career wins at Wall, was of course expected to compete. However, in somewhat of a surprise, Doug Coby, a regular on The Tour, will also make the long trip from his home in Massachursetts to compete.
Joining them is a man who not only is a 2011 New Egypt Speedway champion, but also one of the better fabricators in the sport. Rob Ormsbee will actually compete in two divisions, the Tour Mods, and the Late Model Stock divisions.
Davey Sammons, a very talented young racer, who is best perhaps known for his family's racing publication, the Area Auto Racing News, will also be competing.
While I have only mentioned four drivers from the early entrant list, there are many more scheduled to attend the Turkey Derby, these four certainly have to be considered driver's to beat, along with the Wall Staium regulars. Very rarely does an outsider outperform the Wall regulars, however, an early practice session, held this Satuday from 10am to 3pm, could be just enough to get their cars dialed in for the Turkey Derby on Thanksgiving weekend.
New Jersey is Still Racing in November
There was a time, not too many years ago, that saw the racing season in New Jersey basically end in late September or early October. Race fans would often spend their late fall weekends watching NASCAR Nationwide, and Sprint Cup, on television wishing they were instead at their favorite Jersey local track, while looking forward to the Turkey Derby at Wall Stadium on Thanksgiving weekend.
I don't know what changed. Maybe it's global warming that has allowed the tracks to run events later into the year. Maybe the drivers told the promoters they just weren't ready for the season to end. There is even the possibility that those same promoters realized just what a hardy bunch of race fans we Jerseyans are, and how much we prefer watching our local heroes over those on television every wekend, even if it means dealing with a little cold weather.
Whatever the case, it is the second weekend of November and we have action at two NJ tracks.
New Egypt Speedway will present it's makeup race originally scheduled in October, "Halloween Havoc." The event will feature the "Friends of Mike" Gritty 50 for Crate-1's, the "Romano Memorial" 42 for Sportsman, a demolition derby, enduro, and vintage cars. There will also be trick-or-treating, and a costume contest for the kids. It all gets underway at 1pm on Saturday.
There will also be action at Wall Stadium this Saturday. While there is no "official" racing at the Jersey Shore speedway, there is a practice session scheduled for those drivers expecting to compete in the Turkey Derby.
The session will start at approximately 10am, and conclude at 3pm. The best part about it is grandstand admission is free to fans.
With the weather expected to be clear, but chilly, there is a real good possibility of a large number of teams showing up. These practice sessions, every year, manage to wet your appetite in anticipation of the Turkey Derby, and help feed the hunger of seeing a little local action.
NJ race fans are saying, so what if it's November, give me some local action. New Egypt Speedway, and Wall Stadium are doing just that, and why not? Afterall, it's not even that cold out, especially for a Garden State race fan.
I don't know what changed. Maybe it's global warming that has allowed the tracks to run events later into the year. Maybe the drivers told the promoters they just weren't ready for the season to end. There is even the possibility that those same promoters realized just what a hardy bunch of race fans we Jerseyans are, and how much we prefer watching our local heroes over those on television every wekend, even if it means dealing with a little cold weather.
Whatever the case, it is the second weekend of November and we have action at two NJ tracks.
New Egypt Speedway will present it's makeup race originally scheduled in October, "Halloween Havoc." The event will feature the "Friends of Mike" Gritty 50 for Crate-1's, the "Romano Memorial" 42 for Sportsman, a demolition derby, enduro, and vintage cars. There will also be trick-or-treating, and a costume contest for the kids. It all gets underway at 1pm on Saturday.
There will also be action at Wall Stadium this Saturday. While there is no "official" racing at the Jersey Shore speedway, there is a practice session scheduled for those drivers expecting to compete in the Turkey Derby.
The session will start at approximately 10am, and conclude at 3pm. The best part about it is grandstand admission is free to fans.
With the weather expected to be clear, but chilly, there is a real good possibility of a large number of teams showing up. These practice sessions, every year, manage to wet your appetite in anticipation of the Turkey Derby, and help feed the hunger of seeing a little local action.
NJ race fans are saying, so what if it's November, give me some local action. New Egypt Speedway, and Wall Stadium are doing just that, and why not? Afterall, it's not even that cold out, especially for a Garden State race fan.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Kyle Busch NASCAR Punishment Announced
The official word has come down from NASCAR regarding the discipline of Kyle Busch. He has been fined $50,000, and placed on probation until December 31st.
While this initially looks like another soft stance by NASCAR, if you read the entire statement it really isn't. Yes, the fine is a joke. Afterall, $50,000 to Kyle Busch is like 50 cents to most of us. However, the NASCAR statement also says, should he take another action that is deemed detrimental or disruptive to the sport, he will be suspended indefinitely.
Kyle Busch will have to be very careful on the track. One overaggressive move could literally cost him his spot at Joe Gibbs Racing, if it hasn't already.
It will also be interesting to see if any drivers go out of their way to rough up Busch, hoping to bring out his evil side. He could literally be pushed around in both of the remaining races, with no chance at retribution.
I can only imagine how much Kevin Harvick would love to mess with him if he wasn't in The Chase.
While this initially looks like another soft stance by NASCAR, if you read the entire statement it really isn't. Yes, the fine is a joke. Afterall, $50,000 to Kyle Busch is like 50 cents to most of us. However, the NASCAR statement also says, should he take another action that is deemed detrimental or disruptive to the sport, he will be suspended indefinitely.
Kyle Busch will have to be very careful on the track. One overaggressive move could literally cost him his spot at Joe Gibbs Racing, if it hasn't already.
It will also be interesting to see if any drivers go out of their way to rough up Busch, hoping to bring out his evil side. He could literally be pushed around in both of the remaining races, with no chance at retribution.
I can only imagine how much Kevin Harvick would love to mess with him if he wasn't in The Chase.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Danica Patrick Sprint Cup Car Revealed
Check out what Danica Patrick's NASCAR Sprint Cup car will look like for 2012. One has to wonder if the number choice has to do with how highly she thinks of herself, or more with a GoDaddy.com promotion.
Kyle Busch Suspended Two Races by NASCAR
NASCAR stepped up, like it should, and suspended Kyle Busch for the remainder of the weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. He will not only miss the Nationwide race today, but also the Sprint Cup race on Sunday.
Joe Gibbs Racing is now scrambling to ready the number 18 M&M's Toyota for replacement driver Michael McDowell, who must start from the rear of the field.
There is no word, yet, on whether there will be a replacement driver for Kyle in the Nationwide race as of yet.
Joe Gibbs Racing is now scrambling to ready the number 18 M&M's Toyota for replacement driver Michael McDowell, who must start from the rear of the field.
There is no word, yet, on whether there will be a replacement driver for Kyle in the Nationwide race as of yet.
Kyle Busch Needs to be Parked by NASCAR
Kyle Busch may have finally stepped over the line far enough to force NASCAR to make a very difficult decision. A decision which will show the drivers no one is bigger than the sport itself, even if your name is Kyle Busch.
In case you missed the Camping World Truck Series race at Texas Motor Speedway, last night, the discussion didn't center on Kevin Harvick winning the race, but rather what Kyle Busch did to another KHI driver, Ron Hornaday.
Hornaday and Busch made contact while passing a slower truck at the same time, with Kyle's truck brushing the wall. While under the resulting caution flag, Busch intentionally ran into the back bumper of Hornaday, sending him into the wall, and ending his night.
Busch was immediately parked by NASCAR, but the real damage was done to Hornaday's championship hopes. He started the race third in points, trailing leader Austin Dillon by 15 points, but his 34th place finish dropped him to fourth and 48 points behind.
While it was bad enough Busch wrecked someone under caution, the fact that he intentionally cost a driver a shot at one of NASCAR'S big three championships, will certainly leave NASCAR with a difficult decision.
The obvious decision would be to suspend Busch for the Sprint Cup race this weekend. While he really doesn't have a shot at winning the championship, they would be taking away something he loves to do, race.
However, the decision just isn't that simple. There are sponsors involved, and an entire team, not just Kyle, that would have to be sent home.
This does give NASCAR an opportunity to, at least in part, shed it's image of handing out meaningless penalties to it's stars. Parking Kyle Busch is what should be done, but NASCAR doesn't always do what should be done.
What NASCAR should actually do is sit Busch, and make Joe Gibbs Racing put Ron Hornaday in the number 18 Toyota. That would not only annoy Busch to no end, but generate more publicity than NASCAR could ever imagine.
We will truly see what kind of stones NASCAR has when this penalty is handed down. Do the right thing NASCAR, it's time.
In case you missed the Camping World Truck Series race at Texas Motor Speedway, last night, the discussion didn't center on Kevin Harvick winning the race, but rather what Kyle Busch did to another KHI driver, Ron Hornaday.
Hornaday and Busch made contact while passing a slower truck at the same time, with Kyle's truck brushing the wall. While under the resulting caution flag, Busch intentionally ran into the back bumper of Hornaday, sending him into the wall, and ending his night.
Busch was immediately parked by NASCAR, but the real damage was done to Hornaday's championship hopes. He started the race third in points, trailing leader Austin Dillon by 15 points, but his 34th place finish dropped him to fourth and 48 points behind.
While it was bad enough Busch wrecked someone under caution, the fact that he intentionally cost a driver a shot at one of NASCAR'S big three championships, will certainly leave NASCAR with a difficult decision.
The obvious decision would be to suspend Busch for the Sprint Cup race this weekend. While he really doesn't have a shot at winning the championship, they would be taking away something he loves to do, race.
However, the decision just isn't that simple. There are sponsors involved, and an entire team, not just Kyle, that would have to be sent home.
This does give NASCAR an opportunity to, at least in part, shed it's image of handing out meaningless penalties to it's stars. Parking Kyle Busch is what should be done, but NASCAR doesn't always do what should be done.
What NASCAR should actually do is sit Busch, and make Joe Gibbs Racing put Ron Hornaday in the number 18 Toyota. That would not only annoy Busch to no end, but generate more publicity than NASCAR could ever imagine.
We will truly see what kind of stones NASCAR has when this penalty is handed down. Do the right thing NASCAR, it's time.
Mark Martin Secures Sprint Cup Ride for Next 2 Years
The question that has been asked for most of the NASCAR Sprint Cup season, "Where will Mark Martin race in 2012?", finally received an answer yesterday in a press conference at Texas Motor Speedway.
Mark Martin will replace David Reutimann in the Aaron's Dream Machine number 00 Toyota for a 25 race schedule in not only 2012, but 2013 as well. Reutimann was made aware of his release from Michael Waltrip Racing, following the Homestead race, earlier this week.
The sponsorship deal is for 30 races in both 2012 and 2013. Michael Waltrip will fill the seat for the five remaining races that are part of the deal. Waltrip will run all the restrictor plate races, except the Daytona 500 where Martin will race, and also the Sprint Cup event at Kentucky.
Michael Waltrip Racing plans to compete in the remaining races of the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup with additional drivers, and sponsors.
Michael Waltrip continues to show what an impressive salesman he can be. At a time when other NASCAR teams are reducing the number of cars they plan on running, due to a lack of sponsorship, his team is not only expanding, but adding quality pieces.
With a stable of drivers that includes Mark Martin, Clint Bowyer, and New Jersey's own Martin Truex Jr., not to mention Waltrip himself, he has a group of drivers who have proven they know how to win on this level. The experience that Bowyer brings from Richard Childress Racing, and Martin from both Roush and Hendrick, should go a long way toward helping this organization take the next step towards becoming Chase contenders.
Mark Martin will replace David Reutimann in the Aaron's Dream Machine number 00 Toyota for a 25 race schedule in not only 2012, but 2013 as well. Reutimann was made aware of his release from Michael Waltrip Racing, following the Homestead race, earlier this week.
The sponsorship deal is for 30 races in both 2012 and 2013. Michael Waltrip will fill the seat for the five remaining races that are part of the deal. Waltrip will run all the restrictor plate races, except the Daytona 500 where Martin will race, and also the Sprint Cup event at Kentucky.
Michael Waltrip Racing plans to compete in the remaining races of the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup with additional drivers, and sponsors.
Michael Waltrip continues to show what an impressive salesman he can be. At a time when other NASCAR teams are reducing the number of cars they plan on running, due to a lack of sponsorship, his team is not only expanding, but adding quality pieces.
With a stable of drivers that includes Mark Martin, Clint Bowyer, and New Jersey's own Martin Truex Jr., not to mention Waltrip himself, he has a group of drivers who have proven they know how to win on this level. The experience that Bowyer brings from Richard Childress Racing, and Martin from both Roush and Hendrick, should go a long way toward helping this organization take the next step towards becoming Chase contenders.
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